Pennsylvania will cut up to 46,000 people’s access to the food assistance program known as SNAP(commonly known as food stamps), increasing hunger and hardship for some of the state’s poorest residents.
The clock started ticking on January 1st. Originally, the deadline was April 1st. The Department of Human Services pushed the deadline back to March 1st, meaning cuts will now come at the beginning of June.
“The federal SNAP (food stamp) time limits for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) go back into effect January 1, 2016 in Pennsylvania. This is a federal law that was suspended for many years. Individuals considered “ABAWDs” may only receive SNAP benefits for a total of 3 full months within a 36 month period—unless the person meets an “exemption” or complies with certain work requirements. An ABAWD is an able-bodied adult between 18 and 49 years old who is not disabled, pregnant, or living in a household with minor children. Persons under age 18 or age 50 or older are not subject to this rule.”
For a run-down of the information, visit:
For exemptions to this rule, click the following link:
SNAP participants not subject to time limits;
- You live in a household with kids (the kids must be getting benefits with you)
- You are over 50 or older
- You are 17 or younger
- You are receiving a disability-based benefit like SSI, VA Pension, etc.
- You are not able to work because of a physical or mental health condition
- You are pregnant
- You are working 30 hours a week* or earning at least $935.25
- You are self-employed, you are earning at least $935.25 a month without business costs. You must earn at least $1,870.50 each month if you have business costs.
- You are getting Unemployment Insurance
- You are participating in an alcohol or drug treatment program. This includes being in an AA or NA program.
- You are in school at least half time as an eligible student
- You are taking care of a disabled person who lives with you. This person must also be getting benefits with you.
- A person under age 18 has moved in with you. You will need to add that person to your benefits.
SNAP participants not subject to time limits by county:
- Bedford, Cambria, Clearfield, Fulton, Huntingdon, Mifflin, Somerset
If none of the above applies to you, you can still get SNAP benefits if:
- You can work at least 20 hours a week, an average of 80 hours in a month. This work can be for money, goods or services. You may also volunteer at a qualifying nonprofit or participate in a qualifying job training program.
